Welcoming a new baby into the family is a joyful and transformative experience, but it can also bring big changes for older siblings. As a postpartum doula, my role isn’t just about supporting the birthing parent and newborn—it’s also about nurturing the entire family, including siblings who are adjusting to their new role. When we consider sibling support as part of postpartum care, we create a foundation of connection, understanding, and harmony that benefits everyone in the household.

Why Sibling Support Matters in Postpartum Care

The arrival of a new baby can stir up a mix of emotions for older siblings—excitement, curiosity, jealousy, and even confusion. They may feel unsure about their place in the family or struggle to adjust to changes in routine and attention. Sibling support during the postpartum period helps older children navigate these emotions while fostering a positive bond with the new baby.

By addressing the needs of older siblings, postpartum doulas can:

• Help parents feel less overwhelmed by managing sibling dynamics.
• Create opportunities for older children to feel involved and valued.
• Promote a smoother transition for the entire family.

How Postpartum Doulas Can Support Siblings

As a postpartum doula, I aim to provide tools and strategies that empower families to support their children during this transition. Here are some practical ways I incorporate sibling support into my postpartum care:

1. Preparing Siblings for the Baby’s Arrival

For families expecting their second (or third, or fourth) child, I encourage open conversations about what to expect when the baby comes home. This preparation can reduce anxiety and help siblings feel more secure.

Practical Tip: I provide age-appropriate resources like books about becoming a big sibling or activities that help older children understand what life with a baby might look like.

2. Creating Moments of Connection

It’s easy for older siblings to feel left out when the baby requires so much attention. I encourage families to carve out special one-on-one time with their older children to reinforce their sense of belonging.

Practical Tip: I share ideas for simple activities that parents can do with their older children, like reading a book, playing a game, or even just snuggling on the couch for a few minutes.

3. Encouraging Involvement

Older siblings often want to feel included in caring for the new baby. By giving them small, age-appropriate tasks, we can foster their sense of importance and connection.

Practical Tip: I guide families in finding ways siblings can help, such as fetching a diaper, singing to the baby, or helping to fold baby clothes. These small contributions can make a big difference.

4. Supporting Emotional Expression

Adjusting to a new sibling is a big deal, and it’s important to create a safe space for older children to express their feelings—whether they’re excited, frustrated, or somewhere in between.

Practical Tip: I encourage parents to validate their children’s emotions by saying things like, “It’s okay to feel upset. Having a baby brother or sister is a big change.” I also offer tools like drawing, storytelling, or role-playing to help children process their feelings.

5. Managing Routines and Transitions

Consistency can be a source of comfort for older siblings during times of change. As a postpartum doula, I help families create routines that balance the needs of all children in the household.

Practical Tip: I suggest strategies for maintaining familiar routines while introducing new ones, like scheduling storytime before bed or setting aside family time each day.

6. Providing Parental Support

Supporting siblings is ultimately about supporting parents. When parents feel equipped to handle sibling dynamics, they can approach the postpartum period with more confidence and ease.

Practical Tip: I offer resources and personalized advice to help parents navigate sibling relationships, from managing tantrums to fostering sibling bonding.

The Benefits of Sibling Support

By including sibling support in postpartum care, we can:

• Strengthen family bonds and promote harmony.
• Reduce stress for parents and children alike.
• Foster positive sibling relationships from the start.

Postpartum is a time of transformation for the entire family, and siblings play an essential role in that journey. When we support them with empathy, patience, and care, we set the stage for a loving and connected family dynamic.

A Warm and Inclusive Approach

As your postpartum doula, my goal is to create a supportive environment where every member of the family feels seen, valued, and cared for. Sibling support is an integral part of that mission. Together, we can navigate this beautiful, messy, and transformative time with compassion and connection—building a foundation for a thriving family.